Skull Point Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Skull Point Dam, located in Granger, WY, is a federal-owned structure regulated by the Bureau of Land Management in Wyoming.


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Summary

Completed in 1941, this gravity dam stands at a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a structural height of 27 feet, with a length of 580 feet. It serves as a vital component in managing water resources, with a maximum storage capacity of 62.9 acre-feet and a surface area of 17.54 acres, covering a drainage area of 6.14 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Skull Point Dam plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of a tributary to the North Fork Little Muddy Creek, ensuring water security in the region. While the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, it undergoes regular inspections every five years to maintain its structural integrity. With no associated locks or spillways, the dam primarily functions as a gravity structure, showcasing a blend of buttress and stone core types for added stability.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts would find Skull Point Dam to be a fascinating example of early 20th-century engineering, illustrating the importance of infrastructure in sustainable water management. Situated in Lincoln County, Wyoming, this dam exemplifies the collaboration between federal agencies like the Bureau of Land Management in overseeing construction, funding, regulation, and operation. Its strategic location at the confluence of natural waterways highlights the critical role of dams in safeguarding ecologically sensitive areas and supporting local water supply needs.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

580

River Or Stream

Trib. to N. Fork Little Muddy Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

17.54

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

6.14

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.